Analysis of heavy girder bridge fatigue failures

Constant amplitude fatigue tests, using a rig constructed from military Hea vy Girder Bridge (HGB) components, has enabled a comparison to be made betw een full size welded and pin jointed details with relevant design curves. B S 5400, 7680 and ISDU 82022 curves were compared with the results and found to be realistic but safe. However, the categorisation of the details compa red with the BS classification was not found to be easy and determination o f the appropriate stress ranges required considerable care. Low prior overl oads had no clearly determined effect on life. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Lt d. All rights reserved.